Pam Rose, advisor in the Life Sciences First Year Program, and Betty Gardner, teaching professor in the Department of Biological Sciences, have been honored by the College of Sciences with 2025-26 Excellence in Advising Awards.

Each year, one Excellence in Advising Award is presented to a professional advisor, and another to a faculty member who excels at advising. The awards were established to honor outstanding advising in the college and recognize the key role advisors play in ensuring the success of our undergraduate students.

Edited excerpts from their nominations are below.

Pam Rose joined the Life Sciences First Year team in 2020. She is known for always being helpful and warm as she works with students to help them reach their potential. Students note that she handles their questions and anxieties with grace and poise. The first semester of college can often be difficult for students, but many reported that Rose helped them remain relaxed and feeling welcome at NC State. In the words of one student, “You pushed me when I doubted myself and I’m forever thankful to you. You are the best!!!”

Betty Gardner joined the faculty at NC State in January 1990. Her students report that their NC State experiences would not have been nearly as impactful or positive if it wasn’t for her guidance, encouragement and support. Those who have chosen genetics as a first or second major report feeling welcome in the program and thank Gardner for laying out the steps they need to make the most of their academic careers. One student wrote, “Thank you again for being such a fantastic advisor, I am now a better person because I met you and took your class!”